Catriona Matthew aims for a trio of Ladies Scottish Open titles

North Berwick's Catriona Matthew is going for a hat-trick of wins at the tournament

Scotland's Catriona Matthew will be aiming for a hat-trick of Ladies Scottish Open wins when she tees off at Dundonald Links in July.

She won the event in 2011 and 2013 but faces stiff competition at the Ayrshire course with two-time major winner Suzann Pettersen among her rivals.

"It looks like there will be some strong contenders for that trophy again," Matthew, 45, said.

"Whoever wins it will have to be at the top of their game."

Suzann Pettersen will be making her first appearance at the Ladies Scottish Open

The tournament, which is free for spectators to attend, will be played on 24-26 July, a week before the Women's British Open at Turnberry.

Pettersen, who has amassed 21 professional victories worldwide, is keen to add the Ladies Scottish Open title.

She said: "The field is looking really strong and I'm sure a number of other players will consider playing Dundonald Links, as it provides the perfect preparation for the major a week later."

In addition to world number eight Pettersen, defending champion Trish Johnson, America's Cheyenne Woods - niece of Tiger Woods - England's Charley Hull and Laura Davies have also confirmed they will play.